Regular dental checkups easily allow for routine-careful oral cancer screenings. Oral cancer accounts for roughly six percent of all diagnosed cancers in Australia. Every day, 3 people are diagnosed with the disease. Early detection is crucial in increasing your fighting chances against oral cancer.

People die from oral cancer because the disease often progresses undetected until spreads to other parts of the body. When detected early enough, however, there exists a 90% chance of surviving the disease. For this reason, dentists during dental checkups are very vigilant about screening their patients not only for cavities and gum disease, but for any indications of oral cancer.

Risk Factors
While no one is immune from the disease, there are specific factors that increase risk of developing oral cancer.

Chain smokers, or people who heavily and regularly consume tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and even smokeless tobacco are often at a high risk of developing oral cancer. The same is true for people who are heavy consumers of alcohol. The risk is multiplied exponentially for people who are consumers of both tobacco products and alcohol.

People who are infected with human papillomavirus (HPV 16) are also at a high risk of developing the disease. Other risk factors include advanced age, overexposure to the sun, and a diet that substantially lacks fruits and vegetables.

Symptoms
Two types of lesions are often indicative of oral cancer. White lesions are called leukoplakia. Red lesions are called erythroplakia. While less common than white lesions, red lesions are far more likely to develop into a cancerous growth.

Other possible symptoms of oral cancer include any unexplained lump in the oral tissues, soreness in the throat, ear pain, difficulty in speaking, chewing, or swallowing. If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, it is a good idea to consult with your dental or medical professional.

Keeping regular dental checkups is an imperative in promoting and preserving good oral health and overall wellbeing. CBD Dental Ballarat provides the local Ballarat community with a comprehensive range of only the safest and most efficient dental treatments. Call us on (03) 5332 3148 or book your appointment today!